Planning perspective
What to consider before reaching out
A strong first conversation is about fit, not just availability. Share your date, approximate guest count, location, and the feeling you want the day to have. Ask what is included, what typically changes the final quote, and what decisions need to be made earliest.
For a catering partner, confirm how communication works, who will be present on the day, and how the team handles changes. Pricing was not included in the supplied research, so request a current, itemized proposal directly from the business.
Why this business stood out
The verified notes
- Gretchen builds fully custom wedding menus, including raw bars
- Locally sourced proteins (short ribs) specifically praised
- Comes recommended directly by area wedding planners
In their clients’ words
What people say on Google
Kristian A
3 months ago
Found this spot on the Find Me Gluten Free app as we were passing through the area. I have celiac and I got the Porch sandwich, I think it was called, on gf bread and it was delicious. The woman talking our order said the kitchen would be aware it was an allergy, and I didn’t get sick. It was not only tasty, but the bread was phenomenal. It held up great and didn’t get soggy or crumbly at all. Probably the best gluten free sandwich bread I’ve ever encountered. Would recommend! The iced coffee was also great
Ryan Sortino
8 months ago
We were recommended to use The Porch for our wedding catering. We could have not been more happy to have worked with Gretchen and all of her staff over at The Porch. Everything from the menu planning, to the tasting, to the day of our wedding was so amazing. She made sure everything was exactly as we wanted and the food was incredible. Our guests were blown away by how good all of the food was, especially the steak. We would recommend using Gretchen and The Porch for any wedding or any other event. The main restaurant is also amazing and highly recommended.
Heather Bishop
2 months ago
Absolutely adorable cafe, with indoor and outdoor seating. The O.G. egg sandwich was delicious. The Belgium waffle with strawberries and cream were a kids dream. Then add the wonderful service and atmosphere, this place is 5 stars through and through.
Alexandra & Brian
a year ago
Gretchen of The Porch came highly recommended by our wedding planner to cater our wedding at Aldworth Manor, and she truly knocked it out of the park. The food was one of the most important aspects of our wedding, and we couldn’t be happier with the menu Gretchen created. From the locally sourced short ribs to the stunning raw bar, every dish was absolutely delicious—our guests are still raving about it! She even made a special plate with all three entrée options for my husband and me to enjoy. Her team of servers was equally wonderful, ensuring everything went smoothly. We’re so grateful they were part of our special day!
Dakota Rouse
a month ago
We hired Gretchen and The Porch for our wedding, and I still can't stop thinking about the food. Every single guest told us it was the best wedding food they'd ever had, not "great for a wedding," just genuinely great food, full stop. What made it so special wasn't just the taste (though every bite was incredible). You could tell there was real love and care in everything Gretchen made. Nothing felt mass-produced or phoned in, it felt like she was cooking for people she cared about, not just executing a catering order. Gretchen isn't just talented, she's a superhero. She has a true gift, and she brought a level of warmth, generosity, and skill to our day that made everything feel personal ...
Reviews from Google. Read all of them on Google.
Good to know
When they are open
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Getting here
How far is this from home?
Pick the city you and most of your guests will be driving from and we will estimate the trip.
An estimate for planning, not live traffic. Leafy weekends in October always take longer.
For your guests
Lovely places to stay nearby
The Equinox, Manchester
Grand resort with the room count a big guest list needs.
Kimpton Taconic, Manchester
Porch-front rooms in the middle of the village.
The Grafton Inn
A storybook village inn for a smaller group.
Three stops worth the detour
Somewhere pretty for photographs, and somewhere warm for a good cup of coffee.
Hildene gardens, Manchester
Formal gardens and mountain views behind the Lincoln estate.
Hogback Mountain overlook, Marlboro
The hundred-mile view on Route 9.
Mocha Joe's Cafe, Brattleboro
Downtown roaster beloved by everyone local.
Loved this story? Pass it along.
Perfect for sharing with your person or your planner.
Editorial note: this profile is based only on the vendor research supplied to New England Celebrations. It is not a paid endorsement, interview, or first-person testimonial. Pricing and availability are on request.